Common questions

Are old style fuse boxes still legal?

Are old style fuse boxes still legal?

An old fuse box is not illegal. Not being up to current standards such as BS 7671: 2008 or NFPA 70, means that it won’t have the latest RCD protection, which could save lives.

Is it a legal requirement to have a metal fuse box?

Metal Consumer units have been a requirement in ‘NEW INSTALLATIONS’ since Amendment 3 to the 17th edition of the wiring regulations. This is not that new, it actually became a requirement for new consumer unit installations as of 1st Jan 2016.

Are fuse boxes up to code?

Fuses have not been installed in homes for many decades. Electrical codes change every three years to continually improve the safety of electrical systems that are installed. As a result no fuse panel currently in use in any home in the United States would comply with minimum code standards in effect today.

Do I need building regs for a new consumer unit?

Everything else, such as installing complete new circuits or changing a fuse board for a consumer unit, is classed as ‘notifiable work’. This requires a Building Regulations application to be made in advance so the work can be inspected and checked.

What do I do if my fuse box keeps tripping?

The simple answer is to unplug some of them and move the tripped fuse switch in your fuse box back to the ‘on’ position. While we’re on the topic of overloaded circuits, it’s worth mentioning that extension leads are often the source of the problem.

Do tenants need access to fuse box?

Most states only require landlords to provide access to the fuse box to tenants when the building has four or more rentable units. If a landlord is not legally required to provide access to the fuse box, there is usually no requirement for him to keep someone on the premises that has access to the box.

Do you need building regs for a rewire?

A full rewire has to be notified to the local building control department so that it meets the appropriate safety standards. Speak to the electrician before any work to upgrade your wiring commences. They can self-certify the work and notify the local building control department on your behalf.

Do I need building regulations for a house rewire?

The Building Regulations do not restrict who may carry out electrical installation work. The Building Regulations do not set standards for the safety of electrical appliances but they do require that fixed connections of appliances are safe.

Do you need a new fuse box in the UK?

In the UK many homes are still equipped with an old style fuse box. We strongly recommend that you upgrade your fuse box for a new style consumer unit. This will provide better electrical safety to your property but more importantly, your family or tenants.

What are the regulations for renting a fuse box?

The Landlord & Tenant Act 1985, and several other statutory regulations requires that electrical equipment is safe at the start of every tenancy and maintained in a safe condition throughout the tenancy. A landlord must have a valid electrical certificate, PAT certificate & EPC in London before leasing & renting.

When do fuse boards need to be replaced?

A fuse board does not need to be replaced due to its age, if & when the installation undergoes an electrical inspection & test, its then found to be none compliant with the minimum requirements of the British Standards then & only then will it need replacing. This is recommendation only as it is your house.

Are there new regulations on RCD fuse boards?

I would strongly recommend anyone who hasn’t got any RCD fuse boards to upgrade to the new regulations, as they are a thousand times safer, more efficient, which will bring your energy bills down and the piece of mind is the one that would seal it for me, and for your family and friends.